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Should I do a dual degree or a double minor?

I'm a freshman in college. At the moment, I am majoring in information systems. I'm thinking of a future career in data science, more specifically as a data scientist. Though, as a freshman, this is subject to change. I was thinking of doing a dual degree in data science. But another option is to minor in statistics and computer science.
P.S I already have my AA degree.

#datascience #computer-science #college #minor #techonolgy #informationsystems #dualdegree #college-advice #statisics

computer-science college-advice datascience minor informationsystems dualdegree techonolgy statisics
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Hector’s Answer

If you can, try to get a double major, as will give you a broader view of different subjects. I have a Major in Computer Science and a Major in Math. I have multiple friends with 2 majors: Computer Science and Economics; others with Economics and Math, or Physics and Math. Even I have a friend that decided to challenge himself and he has 2 Majors and 1 minor: A Major in Computer Science, A Major in Economics and a Minor in Math. But it is not necessary to find Majors that are similar (it helps in scheduling, getting the necessary number of credits, etc), but you should find majors that interest you.

The advantage of having two majors is that you have a broader point of view of different subjects. Also, it helps to find solutions to problems, as you gain a larger set of perspectives and knowledge. Several times, by having a very diverse set of knowledge, it can help you have more opportunities, find better solution to problems, etc.

But at the same time, there are multiple challenges that you will face if you decide to follow this path. But with hard work and perseverance, you will do fine:
1. You need to have the necessary credits for both majors, thus you will need to take more courses during the semester vs your peers that may be only following 1 major. It helps if the two majors that you are considering have some overlap. Thus you can use common courses to fulfill the necessary credits to obtain the degree in both.
2. Scheduling courses will be challenging, but not impossible. You will need to plan ahead to get the necessary pre-requisite courses and make sure that you don't miss important courses that are only offered once a year or once every 2 years.
3. Check graduation requirements and speak with your advisor. If both major have a thesis requirement, check if you can do a cross-discipline thesis that may help you in both.


Hector recommends the following next steps:

My first suggestion, is to first talk with your academic advisor to get guidance and help. They may help you plan a set of courses that may accomplish the requirements in both.
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Michael’s Answer

Taking on a dual major at this point, after already getting your AA, may be a longer road. You may want to consider starting to work on a Masters in Data Science while completing your BS. Also consider internships in the related fields. Having multiple minors or even multiple majors may not be helpful in finding your ideal career. Experiences may be more relevant and also many fields look at specific certifications rather than general degrees,
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Albert’s Answer

Hi Aniya,

Like the others have stated, a minor will not likely provide a long term benefit. I have a minor in mathematics and a degree in electrical engineering. None of the places I have worked for took the minor into consideration at all.

A better choice for you to consider would be to take an internship, and ask the people at the company you intern with for their insights in to specific coursework that will enable you in their field.
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Becky’s Answer

I majored in General Science (thinking I wanted to be a dentist) and double minored in Spanish and Business. Go for the double major if you're passionate about both subjects. It's hard to do the work if you're not completely invested. I was passionate in my aforementioned subjects which made getting those pretty easy for me. Do this for yourself and enjoy life while you're at it. A healthy balance is everything, especially with COVID in the picture.
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Melanie’s Answer

I believe that what goes into your resume and is closely followed by employers in the future is your majors. I have 13 years of career and never have I spoken about my minor in an interview or much at all at work, but for sure always about my major. If you have the bandwidth, go for the double major.
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Kaitlin’s Answer

Hi Aniya,

I graduated with a double major in Economics & Psychology. I found myself in this position because psychology was my 'passion' and economics was a topic that I wanted to challenge myself in. My point in saying this is that you should double major if one of your majors is a passion for you. Double majoring can be challenging - it has many time demands and lofty expectations. With that said, I found that with a regimented schedule it was absolutely attainable because I truly cared about the subject matter. I was able to recognize that economics may be a challenge for me, but I had psychology as an outlet. Life is all about balance, and your majors are no exception! You're going to do great!
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